The Positive Effect of Phosphatidylserine on Mood Relief

Phosphatidylserine plays a significant role in relieving negative emotions, primarily through its impact on neurotransmitter regulation, brain function support, and clinical research evidence.  

Ⅰ. Regulation of Brain Neurotransmitters  

1. Serotonin  

Serotonin, also known as 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), is a neurotransmitter responsible for feelings of happiness and relaxation. Phosphatidylserine enhances neuronal membrane fluidity and stability, promoting the synthesis and release of serotonin. Elevated serotonin levels help improve mood stability, reducing anxiety and depression, and making individuals feel calmer and happier.  

2. Dopamine  

Dopamine is a key neurotransmitter associated with reward mechanisms and emotional regulation. Phosphatidylserine helps maintain the normal function of dopaminergic neurons, facilitating dopamine secretion and transmission. Adequate dopamine levels boost motivation, enthusiasm, and pleasure, helping to alleviate negative emotions and enhance overall mood vitality and excitement.  

3. Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA)  

GABA is an essential inhibitory neurotransmitter that helps calm the nervous system, reducing tension and anxiety. Phosphatidylserine may enhance GABA receptor activity by modulating neural cell membranes, allowing GABA to function more effectively. This mechanism prevents excessive neuronal excitability, helping to relieve stress and promote relaxation.  

Ⅱ. Support for Brain Function  

1. Enhancement of Memory and Cognitive Abilities  

Negative emotions often impair memory and cognitive function, creating a vicious cycle. Phosphatidylserine strengthens neuronal signaling, improving information processing in the brain. This helps enhance memory, focus, and thinking ability. When individuals can concentrate better, think more clearly, and remember information more efficiently, they gain greater self-confidence, reducing anxiety and frustration caused by cognitive difficulties.  

2. Reduction of Brain Fatigue  

Prolonged mental exertion or chronic stress can lead to brain fatigue, which in turn triggers emotional disturbances. Phosphatidylserine provides essential nutrients to brain cells, enhancing cellular vitality and resilience. By reducing mental fatigue, the brain becomes better equipped to handle stress and challenges, contributing to emotional stability.  

Ⅲ. Clinical Research Evidence  

1. Studies on Elderly Individuals  

Multiple studies have shown that phosphatidylserine supplementation can improve cognitive function in elderly individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or Alzheimer’s disease, while also alleviating anxiety and depression. For example, a 12-week double-blind placebo-controlled study found that elderly participants who took phosphatidylserine scored significantly better on mood assessment scales compared to the placebo group, demonstrating notable emotional improvement.  

2. Studies on Athletes  

Athletes often experience psychological stress due to high-intensity training and competition, making them prone to anxiety and nervousness. Research has indicated that phosphatidylserine reduces stress hormone levels, alleviating mental strain and fatigue. As a result, it enhances emotional stability, athletic performance, and psychological resilience.  

3. Studies on Students  

Students frequently face high levels of stress and anxiety during exams. In a study examining students under exam-related stress, those who supplemented with phosphatidylserine showed a significant reduction in anxiety scores on self-assessment scales. Their emotions were more stable, enabling them to better cope with exam pressure.